After more than three decades with the BBC, Gary Lineker will present his final Match Of The Day episode tonight, marking the end of an era in British sports broadcasting.

The 63-year-old former England striker, who has hosted the iconic football highlights show since 1999, steps down amid a storm of controversy stemming from a social media post referencing Zionism that included a rat emoji, historically seen as an antisemitic symbol.

In a video apology shared on Instagram, Lineker described the post as “a genuine mistake” and extended “unreserved apologies for the hurt and upset caused.” He confirmed that it was “best for all concerned that I step down from BBC presenting duties altogether.”

End of a Broadcasting Legacy

Lineker’s final Match Of The Day appearance is expected to include a tribute montage, similar to the farewell given to Ian Wright last year. His departure also means he will no longer present the 2026 World Cup or FA Cup coverage next season, despite prior announcements.

His resignation marks the end of a broadcasting career that began with BBC Radio Five Live, where he worked before transitioning to Grandstand and eventually becoming the face of Match Of The Day.

“It’s been a pleasure and a huge privilege working with the BBC for 30 years, especially hosting Match of the Day, a programme that is so close to my heart and an integral part of my life,” Lineker said.

What’s Next for Lineker?

Though stepping back from BBC duties, Lineker remains active in the media world as the co-founder of Goalhanger Podcasts, the studio behind The Rest Is History and The Rest Is Football podcasts.

The Rest Is Football, co-hosted with Alan Shearer and Micah Richards, will release its final BBC Sounds episode this week. However, The Rest Is History and its spin-offs will continue on BBC Sounds, according to PA Media.

New Match Of The Day Presenters

The BBC has confirmed that Gabby Logan, Kelly Cates, and Mark Chapman will share Match Of The Day hosting duties starting from the 2025–26 Premier League season.

Controversy and Career Turbulence

This is not the first time Lineker has clashed with BBC guidelines. In March 2023, he was temporarily suspended over a political comment about the UK government’s asylum policies. Earlier this year, he also signed a high-profile letter urging the BBC to rebroadcast the Gaza documentary How To Survive A War Zone on iPlayer.

Despite the controversies, many fans and colleagues expressed support for Lineker’s contributions to the BBC and football broadcasting. Social media reactions range from nostalgic gratitude to frustration at the circumstances surrounding his exit.